Jordan Brand Signs Its First Chinese Basketball Player

Guo Ailun is the newest member of the Jordan Brand family.

Jordan Brand announced its latest signing on Wednesday, confirming that it's added Chinese basketball player Guo Ailun to its roster. Reports of Jordan signing Ailun first surfaced last week.

"We’re excited to welcome Guo to the Jordan Family,” Michael Jordan said in a statement. "From his competitive spirit and style of play on the court to his strong personality off the court, he’s a great fit for the brand. We look forward to Guo representing the game, Jordan Brand, and ultimately himself in Greater China."

The announcement of Ailun's signing was accompanied by an ad narrated by Jordan.

Ailun plays for the Liaoning Flying Leopards in the Chinese Basketball Association, and has appeared on All-Star squads three times since starting his pro career in 2010.

Jordan first entered the Greater China market in 1997. It occasionally has product releases nodding to its fanbase in the region, the most recent being this pair of Jordan 12s.

While Jordan hasn't disclosed terms of the deal, GB Times reports that Ailun is getting $1.4 million a year from the brand.

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